Immunizations - general overview
Alternative names:
vaccinations
Information:
DEFINITION
A process to initiate or augment resistance to an infectious disease.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
The immune response protects the body against disease. Infants are born with a natural (inborn) immunity against disease (the result of antibodies transmitted from the mother to the unborn child and to infants through breast milk). However, this immunity is temporary, lasting only through early infancy.
Immunization (vaccination) is a means of triggering acquired immunity. This is a specialized form of immunity that provides long-lasting protection against specific antigens, such as certain diseases. Small doses of an antigen (such as dead or weakened live viruses) are given to activate immune system "memory" (specialized white blood cells that are capable of "recognizing" the antigen and quickly responding to its presence). Memory allows the body to react quickly and efficiently to future exposure to microorganisms before they can cause dangerous diseases (the body builds "resistance" to the disorder). Immunization is one of the best means to protect against many of the contagious diseases (those that can be passed from person to person).
Four different types of vaccines are currently available.- Attenuated (weakened) live virus is used in the oral polio vaccine and in the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
- Killed (inactivated) viruses or bacteria are used in some vaccines. For example, the pertussis vaccine uses killed virus.
- Toxoid vaccines contain a toxin produced by the bacterium or virus. For example, the diphtheria and tetanus vaccines are actually toxoids.
- Biosynthetic vaccines contain synthetic ("man-made") substances. For example, the Hib (Haemophilus influenza type B) conjugate vaccine is a biosynthetic vaccine containing two antigens that are combined to form a "conjugate" molecule that triggers the immune system to produce antibodies that are effective against this disorder.
IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULE
The recommended schedule of immunizations may vary slightly as new and more effective vaccines are developed. Consult your primary health care provider about the specific immunizations needed. A recommended immunization schedule for children includes:
Age--Vaccine:
birth--HBV*
2 months--polio, DPT, Hib, HBV*
4 months--polio, DPT, Hib
6 months--DPT, HBV*, polio and Hib
12 months--Hib** (if not given at 6 months and depending on which formulation). The child may also be tested for TB (tuberculosis).
15 to 18 months--Polio, DPT, MMR (Hib and polio optional, if not given earlier)
4 to 6 years--DPT, MMR (MMR may be delayed to age 11 to 12)
14 to 16 years--Td (repeat as a booster every 10 years)
DPT (DTP): diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus (3-in-1 vaccine; 5 total doses recommended)--see DPT immunization (vaccine).
MMR: measles/mumps/rubella (3-in-1 vaccine; 2 total doses recommended)--see MMR immunization (vaccine)..
Td: adult tetanus/diphtheria (2-in-1 vaccine; for use in people over age 7)--see Td vaccine.
*HBV: Hepatitis B; optional schedule: three doses; one at 1 to 2 months, one at 4 months, and one at 6 to 18 months--see hepatitis B immunization (vaccine). Adults who have not received hepatitis B vaccination and do not test positive for the virus but who are at risk of contracting the disease, should be immunized.
** Hib recommendations vary. The conjugated vaccine may be given as shown. If this is not available, polysaccharide vaccine can be given after age 2 years. At least one immunization by age 2 years is currently recommended; children in day-care centers or preschool should begin vaccination at least by 18 months--see Hib immunization (vaccine).
Recommended immunizations for adults:
Tetanus/diphtheria: A primary immunization series should be given once (if not received as a child), then routine booster doses of tetanus-diphtheria (Td) should be given every 10 years.
WHERE AVAILABLE
Immunizations can be provided by the primary health care provider. The Health Department also provides immunizations, usually at a much lower cost than when obtained at the primary health care provider's office.
TIPS FOR PARENTS
Most of the immunizations must be given as an injection (shot) because the acids in the stomach make most oral vaccines ineffective. So far, only the polio vaccine can be given by mouth.
To make this experience easier for the child:
- Tell an older child what is going to happen. Explain that the injection is to keep the child safe and healthy. Knowing ahead of time what to expect may be reassuring for the child.
- Explain to the child that it is OK to cry, but suggest that the child try to be brave. Some children are reassured if the parent explains that they do not like injections either but they try to be brave. Praise the child after the injection is over.
- Distraction at the moment of the injection is helpful. For example, have the child look away (perhaps at a picture on the wall), have them count or say their "ABCs", or tell them something funny at the time of the injection. By the time the child finishes looking or laughing, the injection is over.
Try to be calm. The child will notice if the parent cringes before the shot!
Plan something fun for after the injection. A trip to the park or playground, eating out, playing with the child, or other entertainment after the injection can make the next immunization experience less fearful.
OTHER IMMUNIZATIONS
Adults who have not been immunized as a child often are recommended to receive:*** may be recommended in some situations.
IMMUNIZATIONS FOR TRAVEL
A booklet entitled "Health Information for International Travel" written by the Centers for Disease control and Prevention (CDC) lists which immunizations are required by travelers to each country in the world (ask your own health care provider for more information). The CDC also maintains a 24-hour International Traveler's Hotline; call 1-404-332-4559.
The Public Health Service has indicated that only certain vaccinations are required by certain countries to which you may be traveling. However, other vaccines may be recommended, depending on the type and length of travel. Most immunizations should be obtained at least a month before travel.
Remember to take your immunization records with you when you travel internationally. International travelers may find themselves subject to unusual stressors (such as culture shock, jet lag, differences in altitude, temperature, and humidity, language frustrations, loneliness, and high-pressure schedules). Such stressors may leave the traveler at higher risk for acute medical problems, fatigue, depression, as well as substance abuse, sexual promiscuity and the potential health complications related to each. Because of the enhanced health risks for the international traveler, it is essential that personal health be maintained at an optimal level, health problems be known, and appropriate medications and medical records be carried with the traveler. The traveler should be aware of when, where, and what type of health care should be sought if the need arises.
Rabies vaccine may be necessary if bitten by an animal that is proven rabid, possibly rabid, or in which rabies immunity cannot be proven; or if traveling to and planning to spend more than 30 days in an area where rabies is common*. Occupations at higher risk include hunters, forest rangers, taxidermists, laboratory workers, stock breeders, slaughter house workers, veterinarians and spelunkers (cave explorers).
*Countries of particular concern include Thailand, Mexico, India, Nepal, the Philippines, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Ecuador, Columbia, El Salvador, and most African and Asian countries. Rabies is prevalent in most of these countries. Any animal bite should be suspect. Dogs, skunks, raccoons, foxes, coyotes, and bats are the most commonly infected animals.
See also:
immunization - diphtheria
immunization - pertussis
immunization - polio
immunization - tetanus
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The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Copyright 2000 adam.com, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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